LANSING, MI — Michigan State Police Director Col. Kriste Kibbey Etue presented Trooper Ryan Rich and Trooper Kelly Lambert of the Bay City Post with the MSP Bravery Award for their actions during a traffic stop in March where officers returned fire at the vehicle's occupant, killing him.

The troopers were honored at a special ceremony in Lansing today because of "their diligence and perseverance under uncommon circumstances and for going beyond what is typically expected of most law enforcement officers," according to an MSP news release.

"On March 23, 2012, while patrolling in Saginaw, Rich and Lambert made an early morning traffic stop. When asked to step out of the vehicle for further questioning, the male passenger backed out of the vehicle, turned and opened fire on the troopers, striking Lambert in in his left arm, left ear and neck.

"Rich quickly responded, grabbing the shooter’s arm and weapon, wrestling him to the ground. The man continued to resist, attempting to fire more rounds at the troopers. Lambert, despite being severely injured, was able to draw his weapon and fire. Meanwhile, Trooper Rich was able to disengage from the physical confrontation and return fire, with both troopers fatally striking the subject."

Trooper Rich then grabbed Trooper Lambert, who had endured tremendous blood loss, and raced him to the hospital, the release states.

"For these reasons, the Board of Awards finds the brave actions of Rich and Lambert to be in the highest traditions of the Michigan State Police."

Lambert enlisted with the department in 2000, graduating as a member of the 119th Trooper Recruit School. Rich enlisted with the department in 2004, graduating as a member of the 120th Trooper Recruit School, the release states.

Both troopers were assigned to the Bridgeport Post before transferring to the Bay City Post.